Taliban Releases Two Detained UN Staff Members in Afghanistan, Reasons for Detention Unclear
The Taliban authorities in Afghanistan have released two United Nations staff members who were detained for over a week in the western city of Herat. The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) confirmed their release on Thursday morning, stating that both individuals appeared to be in good health. However, UNAMA has not been formally notified of the reasons for their arrest and detention, though it understands that charges against them have been dropped. The UN is continuing to engage with the de facto authorities to ensure respect for the privileges and immunities of the United Nations, as well as the safety, security, and freedom of movement for its personnel across Afghanistan. This incident follows a series of detentions by the Taliban, including six staff members of a local organization working on women's and children's rights who were reportedly 'forcibly disappeared' for over a month, according to Human Rights Watch. 
